Introduction
Quantum computers are evolving fast. While not yet powerful enough to break today’s encryption, experts warn they will soon threaten vital systems—particularly those relying on public-key cryptography. In fact, the EU’s post-quantum cryptography (PQC) roadmap advises all member states to begin migrating by end of 2026, with critical systems secured by 2030.
This “harvest now, decrypt later” threat makes upgrading now essential.
At TrustSEC, we’re already ahead. By combining BIO-SLCOS smartcard operating systems with biometric smartcards and PQC plans, we help organizations build authentication that lasts—not just today, but into the future.
1. Why Post-Quantum Cryptography Matters
1.1 The Coming “Quantum Threat”
Current standards like RSA-2048 and ECC-256 will become vulnerable once quantum computers are capable of executing Shor’s algorithm at scale. This means sensitive data intercepted now may be decrypted in future—posing an existential threat to long-term privacy.
1.2 EU Policy Making It Urgent
The EU’s roadmap mandates first-phase PQC readiness by end of 2026, and full protection of high-risk systems (banks, energy grids, government, telecom) by 2030.
Waiting isn’t an option—organizations must act now to avoid future backlogs.
2. The Importance of Hardware-Rooted PQC
2.1 Beyond Software—Hardware Matters
Software-based PQC isn’t enough. The most secure deployments combine PQC algorithms + hardware roots of trust. Smartcards use secure elements (SE) and deliver strong protection, even in threat-rich environments.
2.2 PQC on Smartcards: Challenging but Doable
Academic and industry research (NIST, Toppan/NICT, IDEMIA, Thales) confirms PQC can be implemented on resource-constrained smartcards—though tradeoffs exist in performance and key size.
Case studies show success using hybrid approaches (ECC + PQC), smartcard accelerators, and memory optimizations to make PQC viable on-card.
3. BIO-SLCOS + PQC: A Future-Ready Alliance
3.1 What Is BIO-SLCOS?
BIO-SLCOS is TrustSEC’s proprietary smartcard operating system, with Match-on-Card biometric support and customizable applets (FIDO2, PKI, OTP). It ensures fingerprint data never leaves the secure element—meeting both security and privacy standards.
3.2 Encryption Strengthened With PQC
TrustSEC is integrating PQC into BIO-SLCOS, enabling hybrid support for classical algorithms (RSA/ECC) plus quantum-resistant alternatives (like Crystals-Kyber, Dilithium). This gives organizations a smooth migration path—and futureproof authentication.
3.3 Why BIO-SLCOS + PQC Works
- Preserve hardware trust: Keys never leave the SE.
- Match-on-Card: Biometric authentication remains fast and private.
- Crypto agility: Possible to update PQC algorithms later via firmware.
- Regulatory alignment: Meets EU PQC timelines and identity standards.
4. Real-World Use Cases
4.1 Government & eGov
National agencies need secure, offline, and sovereign ID systems. BIO-SLCOS with PQC meets eIDAS 2.0 and hybrid PKI/TLS future needs.
4.2 Critical Infrastructure
Energy grids, telecoms, and utilities must comply with EU PQC by 2030.
Smartcard-based biometrics add a strong security layer.
4.3 Enterprise & Banking
Sensitive corporate systems can leverage PKI tokens with on-board PQC and biometrics to protect long-term internal and external communication.
4.4 IoT & Automotive
Every connected system needs unique identities. BIO-SLCOS+PQC applets automate secure identity, vital in smart grids and connected vehicles.
5. Meeting Regulatory Imperatives
5.1 EU’s Roadmap is Non-Negotiable
By end 2026, nations must have national PQC strategies. By 2030, critical sectors must use quantum-safe encryption.
TrustSEC supports this with hardware PKI tokens and crypto-agile OS.
5.2 GDPR & eIDAS 2.0
eIDAS 2.0 also encourages hardware-based self-sovereign identity. BIO-SLCOS ensures compliance while adding biometric protection.
6. Best Practices for PQC Implementation
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Assess | Catalog all PKI endpoints and lifespan. |
| Pilot | Start hybrid PQC+RSA/ECC smartcard test. |
| Deploy | Roll out fully only when hybrid modes stable. |
| Monitor/Upgrade | Stay crypto-agile; swap algorithms as needed. |
| Educate & Certify | Ensure users and regulators know your roadmap. |
7. How TrustSEC Helps
- PQC-friendly BIO-SLCOS: Ready for hybrid algorithms.
- Certified hardware tokens: FIDO2, GDPR, eIDAS compliance.
- Roadmap support: Certification timeline and OS updates.
- Consulting & onboarding: Step-by-step integration help.
Stay ahead, not behind move to hardware-based authentication today. Combining PQC with biometric smartcards is the only secure path forward.
Contact Us to see how BIO-SLCOS can secure your infrastructure beyond 2030.
SO, Quantum threats won’t wait.
By deploying BIO-SLCOS smartcards with biometric and PQC readiness, you build a trustworthy, compliant, and future-proof identity system. It’s not a distant goal, it’s your next step in secure identity.
